Thomas Kirkham (died 1480) was a pre-Reformation ecclesiastic notable for his role as the Bishop of Sodor and Man during the latter half of the 15th century.

Thomas Kirkham O.Cist
Bishop of Sodor and Man
Appointed21 June 1458
In office1458 – before 1478
PredecessorThomas Burton
SuccessorRichard Oldham (bishop)
Personal details
Died1480
BuriedVale Royal Abbey
DenominationRoman Catholic
Styles of
Thomas Kirkham, O.Cist.
Reference styleThe Right Reverend
Spoken styleMy Lord
Religious styleBishop

Originating from the Cistercians, Kirkham ascended to the position of Abbot at Vale Royal in Cheshire, assuming office around the years 1438 or 1439.[1] His ecclesiastical career progressed with his appointment to the episcopate of the Diocese of Sodor and Man by Pope Callixtus III on the 21st of June, 1458.[2]

After two decades, it's presumed he tendered his resignation from the episcopal throne, as evidenced by the consecration of Richard Oldham as his episcopal successor in the year 1478.[3]

Kirkham's death occurred in the year 1480, after which he was laid to rest within the confines of Vale Royal Abbey.[4][2]

References

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  1. ^ Elrington, C. R.; Harris, B. E.; Baggs, A. P.; Kettle, Ann J.; Lander, S. J.; Thacker, A. T.; Wardle, David, eds. (1980). "The Abbey of Vale Royal". A History of the County of Chester: Volume 3. British History Online. pp. 156–165.
  2. ^ a b Eubel, Konrad (1914). Hierarchia Catholica Medii Aevi. Vol. 2. Monasterii Sumptibus et typis librariae. pp. 239–240.
  3. ^ Fryde, E. B.; Greenway, D. E.; Porter, S.; Roy, I., eds. (1986). Handbook of British Chronology (3rd, reprinted 2003 ed.). Cambridge: Cambridge University Press. p. 273. ISBN 0-521-56350-X.
  4. ^ Harrison, William (1879). "Bishops of Sodor and Man". An Account of the Diocese of Sodor and Man. Douglas, Isle of Man: Manx Society. pp. 53–70.
Catholic Church titles
Preceded by Bishop of Sodor and Man
1458–1478
Succeeded by